Quote Originally Posted by Sprayed
This is what I do for a living. I have a clearance (TS/SCI). I have taken a full scope poly as well and passed on the first try. I have done drugs and I admitted to it in my clearance paperwork and during my poly. It's no big deal as long as it hasn't been recent. They just want you to tell the truth. I can't believe that you would be done if you didn't pass the poly the first time. I know people that have had to take it several times (like over 5).

Which agency is this through? If you need to take a poly I would say CIA, NSA, and NRO. I process clearances for a living and know how each agency works and what they are looking for. Here is the adjudication requirements for intel agencies:

http://www.fas.org/irp/offdocs/dcid6-4/dcid6-4.pdf

If this is a DOD clearance then refer to this manual (NISPOM):

http://www.dss.mil/files/pdf/nispom2006-5220.pdf

I could talk about the different background investigations but it would probably confuse you. If you read the NISPOM you will have a pretty good understanding. Also, without knowing which type (DOD or Intel), I don't want to tell you one thing and be incorrect. If you want specific info, just PM me or post more questions.
The Project I will be working on is for the CIA.